“While each church receives a message reflecting its own situation, there is one overarching issue: whether or not to compromise. Specifically, will these churches be faithful witnesses both to Jesus and like Jesus (and John!) by refraining from participation in the cultural norm of pagan religion, including the imperial cult, even if it entails serious consequences: social, economic, and political?” Gorman

In this third part of the series on Revelation, Blaine and Anthony continue their discussion on the major movements of the Apocalypse. In particular, they discuss the messages to the seven churches from 1:9-3:22 and the vision of heaven in 4 and 5. 

Where to Connect
Mount Vigil has come to an end but you can still connect with Anthony and Blaine at their respective blogs:

• Anthony - Sun Tongue
• Blaine - The Paradise King

Mentioned in this episode:

The Seven-Part Structure of RevelationPrologue – 1:1-8

1. Vision of Christ and the Messages – 1:9-3:22
2. Vision of Heaven – 4-5
3. 3 cycles of 7 Judgements – 6-16
4. Fall of Babylon – 17:1-21:8
5. New Jerusalem – 21:9-22:9
6. Epilogue – 22:6-21

Sources

For a wonderful introduction, check out:
The Bible Project’s Two-Part Overview

• Part One
• Part Two

For a good book on the whole of revelation:

• Michael Gorman Reading Revelation Responsibly
• Scot McKnight and Cody Matchett Revelation for the Rest of Us

For a more scholarly take:

• Richard Bauckham The Theology of the Book of Revelation
• Richard Baukham The Climax of Prophecy

For a book on key elements and Old Testament allusions:

• Brandon Smith The Trinity in the Book of Revelation
• Tremper Longman III Revelation Through Old Testament Eyes